Political Ideologies and Styles

Table of Contents

What Is an Ideology?

Our ideologies shape the way we perceive the world. People with different
ideologies see things quite differently. A person with a pessimistic ideology, for
example, might see every person he passes on the street as a potential thief and liar.
But someone with an optimistic view of human nature will view those same people on the
street as potential friends. This phenomenon occurs in politics as well: Our ideologies
shape how we see, hear, and analyze political discourse.

Ideologies also influence our behavior and how we make decisions. In politics,
ideology often determines whom we vote for. Generally, conservatives tend to vote for
Republican candidates, and liberals tend to vote for Democratic candidates. But our
attitudes also help determine whether we will donate money to candidates, go to rallies,
and even vote. On a larger, more global scale, ideologies often heavily influence
political parties, leaders, and policy. People’s firm belief in their ideologies has led
them to cause wars, found countries, ignite revolutions, wage genocide, and create
empires. As a result, understanding the various major political ideologies that have
shaped much of Western history is fundamental to understanding political science.
Likewise, understanding the differences in American political ideologies helps us better
understand the American people and government.